Adams and Reese has tapped Nashville-based Guilford Thornton Jr. as its new managing partner.

Thornton, a partner specializing in governmental and legislative relations, came to Adams and Reese after it merged with Nashville firm Stokes Bartholomew in 2005. He succeeds New Orleans and Jackson, Mississippi-based partner Charles Adams Jr., 66, who led the firm since 2001.

Elected by Adams and Reese's executive committee in October of last year, Thornton, 53, officially assumed the position on March 1, although he says he has been preparing for the role alongside Adams long before his appointment.